Black-tailed Jackrabbit
The Black-tailed Jackrabbit is a large species of hare native to the deserts and grasslands of the western United States and Mexico. It is known for its incredible speed, capable of reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. It has exceptionally long ears, which help it to dissipate heat in the hot desert environment.
The Black-tailed Jackrabbit is a vital part of its ecosystem, as its presence provides food for a variety of predators, including coyotes, foxes, and birds of prey. It is a fascinating and resilient animal that is a true symbol of the American West.
Black-tailed Jackrabbit
Classification
Mammalia > Lagomorpha > Leporidae > Lepus > L. californicus
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
1.5 - 2 feet
(0.4 - 0.6 m)
Average Weight
3 - 9 lbs
(1.4 - 4.1 kg)
Average Life Span
2 - 5 years
Gestation Period
42 days
Did You Know?
The Black-tailed Jackrabbit is not actually a rabbit, but a hare. Hares are born with fur and open eyes, while rabbits are born blind and hairless.
They are incredibly fast, capable of reaching speeds up to 35 miles per hour (56 km/h) to escape predators.
Black-tailed Jackrabbits have very large ears, which help them to dissipate heat in their hot, arid environments.
Their diet primarily consists of grasses, forbs, and cacti, and they can obtain most of the water they need from their food.
These jackrabbits are largely nocturnal or crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) to avoid the heat of the day.
They communicate using a variety of thumps, squeals, and growls.
Black-tailed Jackrabbits have powerful hind legs that allow them to make long, high leaps.
They are found in a wide range of habitats, from grasslands to deserts, across the western United States and Mexico.
Photo Gallery
No images provided yet. Be the first to upload one!